Coattis

Coattis are a genus of mammals belonging to the family Procyonidae, which also includes raccoons and kinkajous. The genus is native to the Americas, with species found from the southwestern United States to South America. Coattis are characterized by their long, slender bodies, pointed snouts, and ringed tails, which they use for balance. They are omnivorous, feeding on fruits, insects, small vertebrates, and bird eggs. Coattis are highly social animals, often living in groups called "troops" or "bands" consisting of females and their young. Adult males are typically solitary. They are diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day, and are skilled climbers, often foraging in trees. There are four recognized species of coati: the South American coati, the Mexican coati, the mountain coati, and the Cozumel coati. These animals play an important role in their ecosystems by dispersing seeds and controlling insect populations. Their conservation status varies among species, with some facing threats from habitat loss and fragmentation.